Former Indomitable Lions coach Claude Leroy did not mince his words when he gave Marc Brys, Cameroon’s current coach, some valuable advice. Speaking live on Canal +’s Jour de Qualif programme, the French coach gave Brys some sound advice.
After Cameroon’s victory over Zimbabwe on 19 November at the Ahmadou Ahidjo stadium in Yaoundé, a question about Marc Brys’ tactical choices sparked a controversial reaction. The Belgian was said to have been on a first-name basis with a journalist, a gesture perceived as a lack of respect in the Cameroonian context. When the journalist asked Brys why he had brought on a defender in midfield during the match, the Belgian replied in a highly unexpected manner. Marc Brys gave the journalist a rather radical response.
On the set of Canal +, Claude Leroy reacted by pointing out the cultural and professional particularities of the country that Marc Brys really needs to learn if he wants to keep his job in the country of Samuel Eto’o. “In Cameroon, the relationship with journalists is often frontal. You have to be tough and not fall into those traps. I would advise Marc Brys to avoid being on first-name terms with journalists. When you’re in a country, you have to show them infinite respect. It’s OK to have a go at them, but never do it on a first-name basis,” Claude Leroy told Marc Brys live on air.
Marc Brys, a historic debut despite the criticism
Despite this incident, Marc Brys’ record at the helm of the Indomitable Lions is impressive. Unbeaten in his first eight matches, he becomes the first coach since Arthur Georges in 2006 to achieve such a feat with the Indomitable Lions. Since his appointment, Brys has been able to impose tactical discipline and develop talent, while integrating promising young players. His approach, marked by a solid defence and renewed attacking creativity, has enabled Cameroon to top their 2025 CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifying group with 14 points.
Fans are welcoming this revival, but are waiting for confirmation against more formidable opponents in the forthcoming competitions, notably the African Cup of Nations and the World Cup qualifiers. Claude Leroy, while warning Marc Brys about his media relations, nonetheless acknowledges the work he has done.
“He has brought stability to a team that sorely needed it. But the hard part starts now. The pressure is constant, and respect for all those involved, including the journalists, will be essential if we are to go further,“ adds the White Wizard. With this historic departure, Marc Brys seems on course to make a lasting mark on the history of the Indomitable Lions, provided he maintains harmony at all levels.
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